We depend more and more on our electric devices. They allow us to work more efficiently, connect with each other and help realise sustainable change like the energy transition. These products themselves come with a substantial environmental footprint. One of the ways in which we are able to gain grip over the use of materials to create these products and avoid the associated emissions, is by creating Digital Product Passports. By recording relevant information, communicating about the impacts that come with electronics and finding solutions to give use them for longer and recycling and refurbishing at the end of their use, we can realise sustainable progress.
The Environmental Impact of Electronics
Without diving too deep into the negatives, our use of electronics does have a negative effect on the planet. Some figures that demonstrate the severity of the issue:
E-waste: electronics cause millions of tons of e-waste annually. By 2030, this could reach up to 74 million metric tons.
Toxic materials: lead, mercury and cadmium are commonly used in electronic devices. If these are not recycled, refurbished, or properly discarded at the end of their use, they can cause serious pollution.
Recycling: only about 17% of electronics are recycled at the end of their use. This is a waste, not just because of the environmental impacts this causes, but we miss the opportunity to recover valuable materials like gold, silver, and copper.
In other words: we have more than enough reason to turn things around.
Calculating the impacts and making fair comparisons
Being able to calculate the impacts of products, to then communicate about these impacts in DPPs, is a challenge. Performing a single Life Cycle Analysis can cost thousands of euros and take months, if not years. If we have the ambition to record all types electronic products that are being sold on the European Market in DPPs, that might not be the way to go. C_passport® makes it possible to calculate the impact of textile products based on the material composition, product composition and end of use solution. That process takes minutes, and even allows for a range of scopes to calculate with. This makes comparing electronic products a lot easier as well. You can even alter the material composition of DPPs to calculate the change in impact directly. A great way to start contributing to our common goals: identifying the impact of products and improving with insights.
EU Targets for a Circular Economy
In response to the challenges that occur in the textiles industry and far beyond, the European Union has set ambitious targets to transition towards a circular economy and reduce waste. The EU’s Circular Economy Action Plan outlines several key objectives:
Textiles Strategy: By 2030, all textiles placed on the EU market should be durable, repairable, and recyclable, largely made of recycled fibers .
Waste Reduction: The EU aims to cut textile waste by 50% by 2030 through improved collection, recycling, and reuse practices .
Ecodesign Requirements: New ecodesign requirements laid out in the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) will ensure that textiles are produced with less environmental impact and are easier to recycle. The ESPR also includes the obligation for textiles sold on the European Market to be connected to a DPP from 2027 onwards.
Enhancing End-of-Use Solutions
One of the most compelling advantages of DPPs for electronics is their role in improving end-of-use solutions. Electronics often get discarded because users don’t know how to recycle or refurbish them. Even if you want to fix your own products, you might also be interested in making use of a refurbishment programme. DPPs address this by offering detailed insights into the composition, recyclability and ability to refurbish of electronics. Here’s how:
Facilitating Recycling and Upcycling: DPPs provide specific information about the materials and components that make up a product. This enables recyclers to identify the best methods for processing the materials, reducing waste and increasing the efficiency of recycling processes. Refurbrishers can use this information to determine what components might have to be replaced in order to re-enter the product in the market.
Promoting Responsible End of Use treatments: With clear guidelines on how to dispose of or electronic products, consumers are more likely to follow sustainable practices. DPPs can be connected to QR codes or RFID tags that link to detailed instructions, making it easier for users to engage in responsible disposal or recycling.
Supporting Second-Hand Markets: Detailed product information enhances the value of second-hand items by providing potential buyers with insights into the product’s history and condition. This transparency can boost consumer confidence and encourage the purchase of pre-owned electronics, further extending the usecycle and promoting next use of products.
Visualising Material Composition and Associated Impacts
DPPs visualise the material composition of electronics and their environmental impacts. This transparency is crucial for both consumers and businesses aiming to make more informed decisions.
Transparency in Material Sourcing: DPPs can show the origins of raw materials, detailing their sourcing locations, methods, and certifications. This information is vital for consumers who prioritise ethical and sustainable products, as it allows them to choose items that align with their values.
Assessing Environmental Impact: By documenting the environmental footprint of products, DPPs for electronics offer an easy way to learn about impacts. This includes data on water usage, carbon emissions, and energy use. Such transparency helps consumers understand the environmental cost of their purchases and encourages brands to adopt better practices.
Enabling Sustainable Choices: With access to detailed material information, consumers can make better choices. For instance, they can opt for electronic devices that last longer or that might be made from recycled materials. Brands can also leverage this data to highlight their sustainability efforts and differentiate themselves in a competitive market.
Empowering Innovations in Design: Designers and manufacturers can use insights from DPPs to innovate and create more sustainable products. By understanding which materials and processes have the least environmental impact, they can develop electronics that are both high-quality and sustainable.
C_passport® for electronics
Getting started with DPPs can seem like a big ask. Where do you find the data? And how do you implement large amounts of DPPs? That’s where we can help out. The first steps are easily made using C_passport® by Cirmar. All you need to know is what materials are used to create products, and their end of use solutions. Give our free trial a go, or get in touch to find out how to make sure you have a flying start.
